Westminster, CA Landscaping Rules: Artificial Turf (2026)

The City of Westminster permits artificial (synthetic) turf but regulates its quality and installation through the Artificial Turf Design Standards in Municipal Code Section 17.310.035, part of the Landscaping chapter (17.310). These standards apply to all zoning districts and all uses. Allowed material is cut-pile, in-filled type artificial turf composed of nylon, polyethylene, and/or polypropylene (as defined in the zoning code's landscaping definitions). Every artificial turf area must carry a minimum no-fade warranty in the range of eight to twelve years. The code expressly prohibits using indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting as a substitute for true artificial turf. For uses not otherwise subject to the City's Landscape and Irrigation Design Standards, such as existing single-family homes, the property owner must comply with Section 17.310.035(B) before installing any artificial turf area. The City also folds artificial turf into its broader water-efficiency framework: Section 17.310.033 addresses modifications to existing single-family residential landscaped areas, recognizing artificial turf as one way to reduce irrigation demand. Installation should still respect drainage and the City's stormwater requirements so runoff is not increased. Because exact setback, percentage, and base-preparation details sit in the full text of Section 17.310.035, confirm specifics with the Planning Division before installing. Contact Community Development / Planning for a current copy of the Artificial Turf Design Standards.